Everybody Steppin'
"I consider you to be a natural-born teacher.
You always find several methods of teaching a single concept.
If someone doesn't understand your first explanation,
you manage to find two or three alternate ways of showing them.
That says two things: first, you are resourceful and your "teacher's tool box" is plentiful;
second, you recognize that people learn in different ways 
and you need to be prepared to teach in a way that is most effective for each individual learner.
You are learner-centered as opposed to teacher-centered in your approach."
All the best, 
Leslie
Buford Collins (Mistalocks) has the uncanny ability to translate motion into language.  His use of analogy, humor, and the people and materials on hand at any given moment, create classes that are challenging and fun.  Working with Buford improved my dance noticeably in a short period of time. His skill, high standards and innate ability to teach, ensure that I will continue to improve.  I now have a much broader perspective of dance in general and "Chicago Style Steppin" in particular. 

G.T. ~ Lansing Michigan.
Mistalocks brings a wealth of knowledge and experience for various dances to his classroom.  My gains from his teaching are unparallel to other dance instructors. I find his approach to dance instructions clear, comprehensive, and universal. From my first lesson with him, I was able to immediately apply what I learned and transfer it to different dances.  I am continuously improving my dance styles and techniques with every lesson.
 
One of the things that I appreciate most about Mistalocks’ classroom is the professional and relaxing learning “tone” that exists.  The open and friendly environment encourages people from all walks of life. It fosters a family atmosphere and it’s not uncommon to see two or three generations in one classroom.  Even more, the classroom environment promotes a family ambiance where all students become family-like to each other, making it a pleasant place to spend a few hours per week. 
 
MB
Sterling Heights, MI
Over the past couple of years Mistalocks has come through for me. Whenever I have a question about Steppin he goes above and beyond, often giving me more options than I thought existed. I have attended various stepping classes over the past two years, and I can honestly say that for me Mistalocks has been my best stepping instructor. Mistalocks classes are instructive and enjoyable. You will leave each class with a feeling of achievement.
 
Jeff Clark
Detroit, MI
A couple of years ago, I met Buford Collins and, with his encouragement,
became a member of his Steppin' dance class... starting out with him at the Northwest Activity Center.
I have found him to be a most skillful and dedicated teacher.
He, effectively, motivates his students to reach beyond their grasp... making each person feel visible, 
in his class, by tailoring his teaching style to their particular need.
But, at the same time, he very ably keeps the rest of the class engaged and challenged.
I have observed how determined he is to take personal responsibility for the outcome of his teaching.
He works hard to prepare in advance and to keep his dance skills and knowledge of Steppin' current... mostly,
I assume, by what he observes or how he analyzes the art of 'dance'.
One of Buford's special strengths is how well he is able to break the dance down... as an example,
he shows his dancers (leaders and followers) EXACT hand, foot, and body placement.
Buford assumes that we are coming to his class to progress... 
to get the move, exactly, right... to become able in Steppin'.  
He teaches accordingly... and will correct accordingly (although he does have a soft side :-)). 
I think this is because he is so seriously passionate about the art of dance. 
He wants for his students what he wants from himself... to be the very best that one can be! 
-Judy Newash